5 Tips For New RUNNERS I Wish I'd Known Back Then

My journey back to being a quickish runner is in full flow....here's a few things I'm aware of this time around.

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[seekingpurpose]

Even if you’re last in the race, you’re still faster than those that didn’t even try…

[unclebadger]

I ran my third half marathon of the year today and I would say I’m in the best shape of my life (I’m 46 years old). Mark’s videos and attitude have been a total inspiration in me getting to where I have

[everything-has-a-handle-now]

Every time I tried running I injured myself within 2 weeks.
2 months ago I started again. This time running stupid slow.
Just ran my first 10k after 2 months of consistent running without injury!

[coherentpanda]

This feels like an old school video from you Mark, kinda nice to see you get back to the basics of what started your journey.

[davidmartin]

Just signed up for my first ever parkrun in 2 weeks … I’m bricking it 😂 only ever ran on a treadmill before. I’ve just urned 50, been running for a couple of months, and running 5km in 32 mins so worried I may not finish 😅. nervous…. Help !!! 😀 Thanks for the motivation Mark !

[stepa]

Joining races was what made it for me. I always though I will be judged for being slow or fatso, instead everyone was super chill and helpful. Having a community that support each other is great. Thats why we are all on Strava, not to gloat about our race times, but to cheer for others even if they forget to start their watches and log couple of meters warmup :D

[jamalhepburn]

I started running November 2023. Ran a 5k in 30:14. So I set a goal to run under 25 mins @ 5k. I’m @ 26:55 pb. I’m 6’1 230. After I’ve reached my 5k goal I’m going to run a 10k, half marathon and then a marathon. That’s the goal

[grebenyyk]

I have tried to start running many times over the last 8 years, and only now (for the last 10 months) have I managed to stick to it. I just ran a 54:35 10k PB earlier today. The thing that was different this time is that I found routines and approaches that I can stick to. I hope this video will be that for someone watching.

As a matter of fact, this exact channel was also the final push for my decision to get in better shape about 10 months ago—a separate endeavor from my running journey. I went from 97 kg to 71 kg (my height is 172 cm). My nutrition is in the best place it has ever been, and my sleep is in the best place it has ever been.

Cheers Mark, keep up the good work!

[HNXMedia]

I'll never forget back when I started running (about 10 years ago at 41) a some guy asked if I was in the "clydesdale division." I had no idea what that even meant. Now, I crossed the finish line before him, so I wonder what division he was in.

[danschiltroth]

Just finished my first Spartan race 2 hours ago. I booked it earlier this year on your suggestion, Mark. Thank you for that, as it was brilliant! Booking more events right
Cheers from Canada.

[hanseathl]

I (49) ran my first official half marathon this year and I am a regular parkrunner. I did a lot of running during the last years but only discovered the benefits of slow running during the last 6 months. Mark you have been a great source of inspiration to keep going. I might have been in better shape while I was younger but I never felt better with my former than today.

[jono]

i started running ( well walking) in Jan24, as i had no ability to run any distance, once i got better i found a 1 mile route and all i wanted to do was run all of it without stopping
Once i did that i just added some distance, little at a time .
im now up to 10k, it takes me a while at just over an hour but who cares, these videos have helped so much and in the last year i have lost nearly 6 stone, from running, gym etc .
Love your videos, very helpful and inspirational

[callumbucknall]

That "I wont come last", is the sort of confidence I need in my life. =p

[peterwilde]

I love Parkrun. Doing the same one as often as I can is very motivating for me. It is regular and, after you have done a few in a row, maintaining the streak can encourage you to get out there if you don't feel like it that week. It's free to enter and you don't need any fancy gear as someone else does the timing and shows you the way to go. The volunteers are always supportive and there is always someone slower than you. If you want competition or challenge then you get to know the other regulars who are usually just ahead of you and you can use them as targets to chase.

[ggregory]

I love the point you make at the end about the importance of genetics in all of this and how hard it can be to not use that as a yard stick in comparing ourselves to other people.
Great content again Mark!

[jrileyhorn]

Been getting back into running after years away, one beginner tip I have is make sure to rest/recover. Reminded of that one this week after a long run last week.

[jameswalton]

This is brilliant thank you! I am still very new to running and have almost completed couch to 5k. I have found couch to 5k a great help and motivator and cannot recommend it enough!

[NoelSlevin]

I have a few tips:

1) Honestly, don’t worry about the shoes. I am a fast runner, and I use the cheap Jogflow trainers from Decathlon. I have never felt they hold me back.

2) Get shoes that are half a size too big compared to your normal footwear.

3) Be consistent, and try to establish a rhythm you can keep to. It can change, but it’s important to be realistic with yourself about what works for you.

[steff]

love Parkrun. I always saw it in your videos and hated we didn't have them in Germany (thogh I hear they are in the meantime happening in bigger cities). I was elated when I came to Ireland and I started going and am going every week now and am already getting involved with the community there after 2 months <3

[WillChallenges]

Thanks for sharing, Mark! I ran my first 10k a couple days ago. The slow runs helped so much. My slow training time was over a full minute slower per mile than my race time.